Part 9, Chapters 19-23 Summary

Pierre is doing some strange things. He creates an alphabet chart, assigning numbers to the French alphabet and then using this chart to decipher messages. To Pierre, the messages he deciphers mean that he will do something great, something fated, in the war. Pierre brings a bag of letters to the Rostovs, including one from Nikolai, as well as the manifesto. Pierre considers joining the army. At dinner on Sunday, the Rostovs are very pleased that Nikolai has been awarded the St. George's Cross. Natasha and Pierre discuss Andrew. Sonya reads the manifesto aloud for everyone. They are all moved with patriotism. Petya wants to join the army, but his mother doesn't want him to. Pierre tells Natasha that he loves her and then makes up his mind not to visit the Rostovs anymore.